Identity and identification of Trogulus banaticus (Opiliones: Trogulidae) : a neglected species in the Northern Balkans

Trogulus banaticus Avram, 1971 is characterised and recorded as new for Slovenia. This species was previously mistaken for T. coriziformis C. L. Koch, 1839 and T. graecus Dahl, 1903 which were later rejected from the Slovenian fauna. T. banaticus is compared with the similar, and partly sympatric, T. tingiformis C. L. Koch, 1847 with which it has often been confused. A table of distinguishing characters for both species is provided, and the ecology of T. banaticus and its general distribution are discussed

Nemastoma bidentatum (Arachnida: Opiliones: Nemastomatidae): neu für Deutschland und die Tschechische Republik

N. bidentatum Roewer, 1914 was found at two places in Germany: first on the island “Harriersand” in the Weser river (Lower Saxony), second on the banks of the river Elbe in the Elbsandsteingebirge (Saxony). Adjacent to the latter locality an occurrence in the Czech Republic could be located close to the German/Czech border in the floodplain of the river Elbe as well. These records are the first for Germany and the Czech Republic. They enlarge the distribution area of N. bidentatum remarkably in both a northern and a western direction. The two populations show conspicuous differences in the form of the male cheliceral apophysis, which assigns them to the subspecies bidentatum Roewer, 1914 (in Lower Saxony) and sparsum Gruber & Martens, 1968 (in Saxony and the Czech Republik respectively). Differences, morphological characters and variability of the populations are illustrated. Relationships, abundance, ecology and provenance are discussed. N. dentigerum Canestrini, 1873 is recorded in Saxony for the first time. New records of N. triste C. L. Koch, 1835 and N. lugubre (Müller, 1776) are given

Ischyropsalis dentipalpis Canestrini 1872

Ischyropsalis dentipalpis Canestrini, 1872 Figs 5 –10, 22–28, 33–38, 39 Ischyropsalis dentipalpis Canestrini, 1872: 9; Roewer 1923: 686; Dresco 1959: 383; Martens 1969 a: 137, 165, 170, 177, 189– 190, 192, 194, 201–204, 208, 217, 219, 240, 259; Martens 1978: 1978: 197, 200, 206, 212, 218 (partim); Isaia et al. in press. I. (Odontopalpa) dentipalpis: Hadži, 1931: 117, 152. Ischyropsalis helvetica Roewer, 1916: 152 (new synonym); Roewer 1923: 691 (partim: only diagnosis and description of Ψ); Hadži 1928: 15; Roewer 1950: 13, 17, 20, 38; Avram 1964: 245, 255; Martens 1969 a: 191, 201–204, 217, 240; Martens 1978: 49 –50, 188– 189, 197, 199, 212, 218 – 222; Breuss 1993: 251 –255; Breuss 1995: 227, 233, 234, 239; Rhoner & Trüssel 1997: 76 –81; Breuss 2002: 227 –228, 230– 232; Blick & Komposch 2004: 3; Breuss 2004: 133; Komposch & Gruber 2004: 485, 489–490, 508, 527; Komposch 2009 a: 398 –399, 420, 441– 442, 464, 466, 472, Komposch 2009 b: 494. Neotype: ITALY, Prov. Aosta, Gressoney, Pozzo A di Punta Jolanda (Ao / Ao 2075), 2256 m, N: 45.84 ° E: 7.84 °, 1 ɗ, E. Lana leg. 23.08. 2006 (CJM 5918); SWITZERLAND, Kanton Tessin (Ticino), holotype of I. helvetica, 1 Ψ (SMF RI / 1282, Roewer 1916, Martens 1969 a). The original type locality is Gressoney-St. Jean, Italy, N: 45.78 °, E: 7.83 °. The original type (1 ɗ, A. Grecco leg. Aug. 1871; Canestrini 1872) was lost during the 1970 flood in Genova. Roewer (1950) declared the ɗ of SMF RII / 229 / 5 (South Tyrol, Dolomites, Rosengarten, N: 46.47 ° E: 11.65 °, 1 ɗ 1 Ψ) to be the allotype of " I. helvetica ". This is not a valid action because it was not proposed in the original description. Martens (1969 a) revealed this material to belong to Ischyropsalis manicata L. Koch, 1865 and the locality appears to be a false geographic indication by Roewer (see discussion in Martens 1969 a; Helversen & Martens 1972). The name “ helvetica ” has been used for I. manicata by several authors (see Martens 1969 a). Other material investigated: ITALY, Prov. Aosta, Aosta Valley, Brusson, Miniera, 1400 m, N: 45.76 ° E: 7.71 °, 1 juv., Gobetti leg. June 1971 (CJM 1497); Piemonte, Prov. Torino, Brosso, Valchiusella Valley, Buca del Ghiaccio della Cavallaria (Pi/To 1609), 1550 m, N: 45.52 ° E: 7.80 °, 2 Ψ, E. Lana leg. 15.10. 2006 (CJM 5920); 1 juv., same locality, E. Lana leg. 26.07. 2003 (CJM 5921); 1 Ψ, same locality, E. Lana leg. 20.10. 2003 (CJM 5922); Ceres, Stura di Ala-Valley, Cava "B" di pietra ollare del Servais, 1390 m, N: 45.32 ° E: 7.33 °, 1 ɗ 1 Ψ, E. Lana leg. 29.09. 2002 (CJM 5930); Ribordone, Locana-Valley, Boo' d' la Faia (Pi/To 1596), 1780 m, N: 45.47 ° E: 7.51 °, 2 ɗ 2 Ψ, E. Lana leg. 12.08. 2001 (CJM 5928); Sparone, Locana-Valley, Grotta "La Custreta" (Pi/To 1593), 1350 m, N: 45.45 ° E: 7.55 °, 2 ɗ, E. Lana leg. 23.07. 2000 (CJM 5923). - SWITZERLAND, Kanton Graubünden, Dischma-Tal, 2180 m, N: 46.77 ° E: 9.87 °, N slope, ridge area, 1 ɗ, B. Wartmann leg. 10.06. 1979, M. Wolf ded. Sept. 1983 (CJM 2144); Misox Valley, Calanca Valley, near Selma, N: 46.32 ° E: 9.12 °, small cave, 1 Ψ, M. Wolf leg. 30.04. 1977 (CJM 2145); Kanton Obwalden, Melchsee-Frutt, Kerns, cave system M 37 -M 40 -M68, 1775 m, N: 46.90 ° E: 8.28 °, sector M 68 MP 57.3, 1 Ψ, M. Trüssel leg. 0 8.09. 1994 (CJM 3766); Obere Grosswaldhöhle M34, 1593 m, N: 46.90 ° E: 8.28 °, entrance region MP 1 /3, 1ɗ, infested with Gregarinida, M. Trüssel leg. 11.09. 1994 (CJM 3767); Kanton Tessin (Ticino), Sonogno, Fiadariö dal Ràgn, N: 46.35 ° E: 8.78 °, 1 Ψ, D. Ferrini leg. 0 3.08. 1957 (CJM 1481); Valle Verzasca, Frasco, Cà di Vecc, N: 46.33 ° E: 8.80 °, 1 ɗ, D. Ferrini leg. Aug. 1956 (CJM 1480); Bellinzona, Bocca di Gaggio above Mte Carasso, 1950 m, 1 Ψ, P.M. Giachino leg. 22.07. 1984 (MTSN). Further material not investigated: The following records were compiled from confirmed published data, personal communication of authors and photographs. Furthermore the previous references confirm the presence of I. dentipalpis from close-by localities. We list all these data to outline the distribution of I. dentpalpis more accurately. AUSTRIA, Tyrol: Samnaun mountain group, Idalpe near Ischgl, in Kar of the Vellilbach, SW exposed ridge, coarse rocky debris in the background, 2570 m, N: 46.99 ° E: 10.33 °, 1 ɗ, K.H. Steinberger leg. by pitfall traps 15.08.– 28.08.1991 (CWB, Breuss 1993); Vorarlberg, Montafon, Garneratal, 1600 m, N: 46.91 ° E: 10.00°, 1 ɗ, K.H. Steinberger leg. by pitfall traps 1998–2001 (CWB, Breuss 2002). - ITALY, Valle d'Aosta, La Salle, Borna d’la Glace or Grotta ghiacciata di Chabaudey (2001 Ao / AO) 1545 m, N: 45.73 ° E: 7.06 °, 1 specimen, R. Monti leg. 11.09. 1901 (Pavesi 1904; Gozo 1908; Martens 1969 a); Piemonte, Prov. Torino, Ceres, Borna del Servais B (old soapstone mine), 1350 m, N: 45.32 ° E: 7.33 °, 1 juv., M. Isaia, M. Paschetta photographed 14.10. 2009 (Isaia et al. in press); Galleria Santa Barbara, Miniere di talco di Fontane, Comune di Prali, N: 44.93 ° E: 7.08 °, 1 ɗ 1 Ψ M. Isaia, M. Paschetta photographed 25.02. 2008 (Isaia et al. in press); Prov. Vercelli, Pozzo di S. Quirico, Borgosesia (2567 Pi/VC, as “Grotta del Pozzo, sul Monte Fenera”), 640 m, N: 45.705 ° E: 8.315 °, 1 Ex., Calderini leg. autumn 1897 (as Ischyropsalis luteipes, Gozo 1908; Martens 1969 a). - SWITZERLAND, Kanton Graubünden: Rätikon, S slope of Sulzfluh, Herrenhöhle (2113 / 17), 30 m from entrance, 2330 m, N: 47.01 ° E: 9.84 °, 1 ɗ 1 Ψ, W. Breuss leg. 0 6.10. 1992 (NHMW, Breuss 1993); 1 juv., W. Breuss leg. Oct. 1992 (Breuss 1995); Kleinhöhle gegenüber Abgrundhöhle (2113 / 16), in potholes 5 m from entrance, 2310 m, N: 47.01 ° E: 9.84 °, 2 ɗ 2 Ψ, W. Breuss leg. 0 6.10. 1992 (CWB, Breuss 1993, 1995); Seehöhle in der Sulzfluh, 2300 m, N: 47.01 ° E: 9.84 °, 1 Ψ, Hauser leg. 24.05. 1961 (MHNG, Martens 1969 a); Kanton Nidwalden, Wolfenschiessen, Veloständerhöhle, 1955 m, N: 46.90 ° E: 8.38 °, 1 ad, Höhlengruppe Hergiswil leg. 25.07. 1997, A. Rhoner det. (CAR, Rhoner & Trüssel 1997); Kanton Obwalden, Melchsee-Frutt, near Arviböden, Neotektonikhöhle (M 40), 1775 m, N: 46.78 ° E: 8.27 °, eggs, M. Trüssel leg. 13.08. 1995 (CAR, Rhoner & Trüssel 1997); eggs, M. Trüssel leg. 10.08. 1996 (CAR, Rhoner & Trüssel 1997); near Bettenalp, Bettenhöhle (M 39), 1815 m, N: 46.78 ° E: 8.27 °, 1 ad, A. Rohner leg. 13.02. 1995 (CAR, Rhoner & Trüssel 1997); Kerns, Tausendfüsserhöhle M29, 2075 m, N: 46.90 ° E: 8.28 °, 1 ad, K. Fischer vid. et det. 06.10.2007; 1 ad, U. Fischer vid. 14.12. 2003, M. Trüssel det.; Cave M77, 2090 m, 1 specimen, M. Trüssel vid. et det. 26.07.2000; Obere Grosswaldhöhle M34, 1593 m, N: 46.90 ° E: 8.28 °, 1 ɗ, M. Trüssel vid. 22.10.2004; 1 Ψ, M. Trüssel vid. 22.10.2007; Cave S 4 at Schwarzhorn, 2422 m, N: 46.90 ° E: 8.28 °, eggs, M. Trüssel vid. et det. 04.04.2002; Alpnach, Mondmilchloch at Pilatus, 1710 m, N: 46.94 ° E: 8.27 °, 1 specimen, M. Trüssel leg. 18.08. 2002, A. Rohner det. (CAR); Lungern, Klein Melchtal, Laucherhöhle, 1902 m, N: 46.79 ° E: 8.16 °, 1 specimen, M. Trüssel leg. 19.10. 2001, A. Rohner det. (CAR); Engelberg, Bärenhöhle Hohfad, N: 46.82 ° E: 8.40 °; 1 ad, 2 juv. M. Trüssel leg. 0 2.09. 2006, A. Rohner det. (2 specimen CAR); Schwarzhorn/Graustock, Fikenloch, 2406 m, N: 46.78 ° E: 8.27 °, 2 ad, M. Trüssel leg. 0 4.07. 1995 (CAR, Rhoner & Trüssel 1997); Kanton Schwyz, Muotathal, Wasserberg, Unteres Böllenloch, 1378 m, N: 46.97 ° E: 8.76 °, 1 ad, F. Auf der Maur leg. 21.07. 1996 (CAR, Rhoner & Trüssel 1997); Silberen, Schilttloch, 2000 m, N: 46.99 ° E: 8.90 °, 1 ad, P. Morel leg. 0 6.09. 1996 (CAR, Rhoner & Trüssel 1997); Kanton Tessin, Frasco, Cà di Vecc, N: 46.33 ° E: 8.80 °, 1 ɗ, D. Ferrini leg. 15.04. 1957 (MNHN, Dresco 1959); 1 juv., E. Dresco, L. Dresco, D. Ferrini leg. 21.08. 1957 (MNHN, Dresco 1959); Frasco, cave Frigee, N: 46.33 ° E: 8.80 °, 1 ɗ, D. Ferrini leg. 18.07. 1957 (MNHN, Dresco 1959). Diagnosis: A species of the dentipalpis group (see Martens 1969 a) with long and slender chelicerae. Among the species of the southern Alps it shares several characters with I. lithoclasica sp. n. and I. ravasinii Hadži, 1942: apophyses present on the patellae of the pedipalps and a rounded prominent apophysis distally on the proximal cheliceral article. In the field these three species cannot be told apart by morphological characters but only by their allopatric ranges. Males of I. dentipalpis are characterised by shovel-shaped ventrad-pointing pedipalpal apophyses (Figs 6, 8, 10), rounded, knob-like dorso-distal apophyses on the proximal cheliceral article with rounded bristle areas restricted to the front of the apophyses (Figs 5, 7, 9), and by their distinct penis morphology (Figs 22–28). Females are discernible by the presence of a large dorsal spine in the distal fifth of the proximal cheliceral segment, which is as large as the other large dorsal spines (Figs 36–38, see arrows), and by inconspicuous short and thick bristles on the opisthosomal sclerites. I. dentipalpis is locally sympatric with I. carli Lessert, 1905, which lacks an apophysis on the pedipalpal patella in ɗ, possesses an inconspicuous rounded cheliceral apophysis with a small circular glandular field (Martens 1978: figs 364–366), and is in general smaller, more compact, short-legged and blackish due to a stronger sclerotisation. Females of I. carli have a scutum parvum (dorsal abdominal sclerites fused, see Martens 1978: fig. 361) in contrast to the scutum laminatum (dorsal sclerites isolated) in I. dentipalpis. Description: Measurements: ɗ (n= 9), Ψ (in parentheses, n= 9). Body length: 3.52–5.20 (3.28–7.76); leg II: 21.0– 36.3 (23.5–33.8), femur 4.96–7.84 (5.28–7.44), patella 1.36–1.60 (1.36–1.76), tibia 3.44–6.64 (4.40– 6.56), metatarsus 6.08–10.64 (6.64–9.60), tarsus 5.20–9.60 (5.84–8.48); basal article of chelicera 3.20–4.80 (4.00– 4.72). Ψ show a wider range in body length due to different states of gravidity but their chelicerae are less variable in size than in ɗ. Penis morphology (Figs 22–28): Truncus penis (Figs 24, 27, 28) from base to below glans gradually narrowing, below glans slightly widening, noticeably bulged dorsally in the region of the glans, thereby strongly constricting distal third of glans (lateral view, Figs 22, 25, 28). Glans variable in length, slightly constricted in midsection or almost parallel-sided, distal end hemispherically rounded (ventral view, Figs 23, 26), sclerite of glans long and narrow, almost parallel-sided, basal end tapering (Fig. 23) or divided into two inconspicuous lobes (Fig. 26), median keel missing or very weakly developed, bristle cover dense, widely separated into two lateral areas (ventral view, Figs 23, 26), stylus remarkably long. Chelicerae (Figs 5, 7, 9, 33– 38): ɗ basal article long and slender; spination variable, individual spines irregularly arranged and offset to one another; dorsally with an irregular row of 6 spines, in most specimens dorso-distal spine as large as largest dorsal spines (Figs 33–35), 6 ventro-lateral and 5 ventro-medial spines of different size; dorso-distally a bulging, knob-like apophysis (Figs 5, 7, 9), in lateral view protruding over article border and thus strongly influencing shape of apophysis; dorso-distal circular area on apophysis with sparse cover of bristles (brush-like) often marked by lighter brownish colour, in dorsal view area of bristles not reaching dorsal side of apophysis, in lateral view restricted to a small dorso-distal part of the apophyis (Figs 5, 7, 9); Ψ as in ɗ but without apophysis and bristle area (Figs 36–38). Legs: Robust, of medium length, dark brown, metatarsus and tarsus of lighter colour, base of femora whitish to yellowish. Pedipalps (Figs 6, 8, 10): ɗ with broad, shovel-shaped apophysis at ventro-distal end of patella pointing ventrad, apophysis absent in Ψ. Prosoma: Cephalothorax flat, no ascent from thoracic tergite II, with some fine granules, matt; thoracic tergite II with 7–9 spines of different sizes; ocularium weakly developed, eyes widely separated, lenses small. Opisthosoma: Areae finely spotted and granular, with transverse rows of inconspicuous small tubercles, each carrying a thick and short bristle. ɗ with scutum parvum, Ψ with scutum laminatum (in rare cases opisthosomal tergites I and II fused). Distribution: (Fig. 39). I. dentipalpis occurs in a large area in the northwestern Alps, roughly along the border zone between Switzerland and Italy, from the eastern border in southwestern Austria (western Tyrol) reaching to the Gran Paradiso Massiv in Italy. No records from France are known at present. This large distributional area so far appears fragmented into four smaller areas: 1) southwestern border zone of Austria (Vorarlberg and western Tyrol) and Switzerland (Kanton Graubünden), Rätikon and Silvretta Mountain group; 2) southern Lepontine Alps, only Swiss part with Kanton Tessin and neighbouring southern part of Kanton Graubünden; 3) central Swiss Pre-Alps, Kanton Schwyz and Obwalden; 4) Alpine area of northwestern Italy, Pennine, Graian and Cottian Alps. Here, three Italian distributional outliers are to be mentioned. The Gran Paradiso Massiv record represents the southwestern-most record and La Salle the northwestern-most record. The record from Borgosesia is remarkable for its low altitude (640 m). New records and denser sampling are needed to confirm the geographic isolation of these populations and single records (see Conservation). Ecology: The present records suggest that I. dentipalpis, like I. lithoclasica sp. n., is a troglophilous species rather than a true troglobiont. It has been recorded several times in deep gravel beds and is probably able to disperse via this habitat, resulting in its large present distributional area. Caves are frequently inhabited for their cool, moist and dark microclimate. In Switzerland I. dentipalpis was recorded in caves at altitudes between 1378 m and 2406 m, most frequently above 2000 m. Epigeic records from Switzerland and Austria encompass altitudes from 1600 m to 2570 m. In Italy only cave records do exist, all being located between 1350 m to 1780 m. The lowest record at 640 m is an exception. Conservation: Komposch (2009 a) listed I. dentipalpis as critically endangered (threatened by extinction) in Austria. Although this might be true for the Austrian peripheral populations, the species itself is probably not threatened due to its large distributional area. On the other hand this large distribution appears fragmented and should be investigated for possible cryptic differentiation and general vulnerability of haplotype diversity of this in general rare opilionid. Furthermore, in view of the species’ restriction to high altitudes and low temperatures, global warming could lead to drastic reduction of suitable habitats in the near future. Remarks: Although Pavesi (1904) mentioned Ischyropsalis dentipalpis from a cave in the Aosta Valley (Borna de la Glace), Gozo (1908), who did not see this material, stated that the species is not “cavernicolous”. In any case, the troglophilous I. carli is present in the Aosta Valley as well, and there are recent records (Gressoney-Saint-Jean, 1550–2000 m, alongside ski piste and streams, N: 45.76 ° E: 7.83 °, 1 ɗ, M. Negro leg. 30.6. 2006, CJM 5933; 1 ɗ, 5 juv., A. Schönhofer leg. 13.– 14.09.2008, CJM 6328). The identity of Pavesi’s (1904) specimen could not be clarified because we could not locate it.Published as part of Schönhofer, Axel L. & Martens, Jochen, 2010, On the identity of Ischyropsalis dentipalpis Canestrini, 1872 and description of Ischyropsalis lithoclasica sp. n. (Opiliones: Ischyropsalididae), pp. 1-14 in Zootaxa 2613 on pages 4-8, DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.19784

Leiobunum religiosum: neu für Deutschland (Arachnida: Opiliones)

L. religiosum Simon, 1879 was found at Mayen near Koblenz (Rhineland-Palatinate), Germany. This is the first record for Germany and is about 500 km from the known distribution area of the species in the southwestern Alps. The German population seems to be restricted to the ancient Roman quarry “Mayener Grubenfeld” where it is confined to stone walls and cave systems with balanced microclimatic conditions. Genital morphological structures were found to be very fragile, were easily deformed and therefore apparently variable. Difficulties in using these characters for taxonomy are discussed. Ecology, provenance and conservation status of the newly discovered population are considered

The Leiobunum rupestre species group: resolving the taxonomy of four widespread European taxa (Opiliones: Sclerosomatidae)

Within the central European opilionid fauna the widely used species names Leiobunum rupestre Herbst, 1799 and Leiobunum tisciae Avram, 1968 pose taxonomic and distributional problems. In addition, Nelima apenninica Martens, 1969 is close to L. tisciae in terms of external and genital morphology, but is specifically distinct. While coxal denticulation is largely lacking in N. apenninica, the validity of the genus Nelima Roewer, 1910 is questioned again. In addition, Leiobunum subalpinum Komposch, 1998, a recently described novelty from the eastern Alps, is closely related to L. rupestre. The four species are combined as the morphologically defined Leiobunum rupestre species group. Except for L. subalpinum, they were found to be allopatrically distributed from the Carpathians across central and Northwest Europe to the south-western Alps. The latter species is locally sympatric and partly elevationally parapatric to L. rupestre. Leiobunum tisciae is a recently introduced name and here recognized as a junior synonym of a number of taxa described much earlier, of which L. gracile Thorell, 1876 is re-introduced as oldest available name. Detailed morphological and distributional data for all taxa are presented

Ischyropsalis lithoclasica Schönhofer & Martens, 2010, sp. n.

Ischyropsalis lithoclasica sp. n. Figs 2 –4, 11–21, 29–32, 39 Ischyropsalis sp. aff. strasseri Roewer, 1950: Hadži 1954: 180 –183; Martens 1969 a: 249, 252; Martens 1978: 200. I. strandi Kratochvíl, 1936: Martens 1969 a: 249 –252 (partim). I. dentipalpis Canestrini, 1872: Martens 1978: 49 –50, 188– 189, 197–200, 206, 212, 219, 221 (partim). Holotype: ɗ, ITALY, Lombardia, Prov. Bergamo, Valle Valzurio, Oltressenda Alta, Valley of Stalle del Möschel, “sorgenti di aria fredda” (meaning “spring of cold air”, a place now modified to store groceries), 1200 m, N: 45.945839 ° E: 10.009737 °, R. Pisoni, M. Valle leg. by pitfall traps 18.08.– 09.09.1985 (MSNB). Paratypes (only adult specimens): Same data as for holotype, 9 Ψ 1 juv. (MSNB); 3 ɗ 6 Ψ, R. Pisoni, M. Valle leg. by pitfall traps 1986 (MSNB); 1 ɗ 6 Ψ 1 juv., R. Pisoni, M. Valle leg. by pitfall traps 18.08. 1985 (MSNB); 2 ɗ 1 Ψ, M. Valle leg. by pitfall traps 1987–1988 (MSNB); Oltressenda Alta, Valle Scura, 2200 m, N: 45.979663 ° E: 10.020870 °, 1 ɗ A. Andreani, P. Quirci, M. Valle leg. 13.07. 1988 (MSNB); 1 ɗ M. Panololfi, P. Quirci, M. Valle leg. 27.09. 1988 (MSNB); picnic area W Stalle del Möschel, 1198 m, N: 45.93810 ° E: 10.00446 °, 2 ɗ 1 Ψ 1 juv, in cavities of large, mossy rocks in coniferous forest, A. Schönhofer leg. by hand 18.09. 2009, (Figs 1–4, CAS 429); Premolo, Baita Camplano, 1800 m, N: 45.921134 ° E: 9.962669 °, 1 Ψ, Menabò, M. Valle leg. 24.07. 1983, (MTSN); doline a sud di Baita Camplano, pitfall traps, 1850 m, N: 45.92 ° E: 9.82 °, 1 juv., Museo Bergamo leg. by pitfall traps 29.09.2004 – 21.06.2005 (MSNB); Roncobello, Sotto il Faggio, Buco del Castello (1309 Lo/Bg), 1340 m (not 700 m as given in Martens 1978 and Brignoli 1972), N: 45.95 ° E: 9.77 °, 1 ɗ 3 Ψ, Bini leg. Dec. 1970 (CJM 1490); dito, 1 Ψ, Nov. 1969 (CJM 1487); dito, 1 ɗ, 25.07. 1970 (CJM 1489); dito, 1 Ψ 1 juv., Apr. 1970 (CJM 1491); dito, 2 juv., Nov. 1969 (CJM 1492); dito, 1 ɗ 1 Ψ, Dec. 1969 (CJM 1493); dito, 1 juv., Dec. 1970 (CJM 1494); dito, 2 juv., Dez. 1970 (CJM 1495); dito, 5 juv. Dec. 1970 (CJM 1488); dito, 1 ɗ, G. Comotti leg. 12.09. 1982 (MTSN); Corno Branchino and Lago Branchino, 1600–1794 m, N: 45.94931 ° E: 9.80257 °, alpine meadow, under stones, 1 juv., P. Pantini, A. Schönhofer leg. by hand 17.09. 2009 (CAS 409); Sant’Omobono Terme, Nala di Cà Maquela (1135 Lo/BG), 670 m, N: 45.80 ° E: 9.52 °, 7 juv., G. Comotti, A. Baldan leg. 0 4.03. 1990 (MSNB); Schilpario, Conca Baione, 2000 m, N: 46.021692 ° E: 10.249133 °, 1 ɗ, C. Ravazzi, M. Valle leg. 17.07. 1986 (MSNB); Vilminore di Scalve, Miniera Passo Manina, 1600 m, N: 46.01 ° E: 10.03 °, 1 ɗ 1 Ψ, A. Baldan, G. Comotti leg. 19.08. 1990 (MSNB); Val Seriana, Boario de Grono, Büs di Tacoi (1007 Lo/BG), 1550 m, N: 45.96 ° E: 9.96 °, 4 Ψ, Bini leg. 29.06. 1970 (CJM 1496); 1 Ψ, Regalin leg. 17.10. 1982, (chelicerae missing, MTSN); 1 Ψ, E. Boesi leg. 29.06. 1928 (CJH; Hadži 1954, I. aff. strasseri; Martens 1969 a, I. strandi); Ardesio, Cacciamali, Bora de l'Or, cave 1, 1225 m N: 45.94 °, E: 9.91 ° (1225 Lo/BG), 5 ɗ, G. Comotti leg. 26.06. 1983 (chelicerae missing, MTSN); Valgoglio, Valsanguigno, stony gravel near lake under Pizzo Salina, 2150 m, N: 45.984477 °, E: 9.854446 °, 1 ɗ, M. Massaro, W. Zucchelli leg., by pitfall traps 13.09 – 30.10.2009 (MSNB). Diagnosis (see I. dentipalpis for an overall characterisation): Males are discernible by wedge-shaped distad-pointing apophyses on pedipalpal patella (Figs 12, 14), by larger distal apophyses on basal cheliceral article with extended bristle areas (Figs 11, 13) and by their genital morphology (Figs 15–21). Females are discernible by the presence of a small spine in distal fifth of basal cheliceral article, which is much smaller than the large dorsal spines (Fig. 31; in few specimens absent, Fig. 32) and slender bristles of medium length on the opisthosomal tergites. I. lithoclasica sp. n. is endemic to the Alps of Bergamo and the only Ischyropsalis species present in this area. Ischyropsalis ravasinii is very similar to I. lithoclasica sp. n. in featuring similar pedipalpal and cheliceral apophyses. However, genital morphology is clearly different and I. lithoclasica sp. n. is about 20 % smaller in every respect. Chelicerae tend to be less slender and spines are more pronounced than in I. ravasinii. Both species are allopatric. Their distribution areas are separated by the alpine mountain massifs between Lake Iseo and Lake Garda, an area apparently uninhabited by Ischyropsalis. Etymology: The name refers to the fact that this species inhabits cavities in clastic rocks at the type locality (Fig. 1). The name, an adjective, is derived from the Greek “lithos” and “klastos” meaning broken stones. FIGURES 29–38. Right chelicera. 29 –30, 33– 35: ď; 31 –32, 36– 38: Ψ. 29–32: Ischyropsalis lithoclasica sp. n., Italy, Prov. Bergamo; 29, 31: paratypes, Buco del Castello (CJM 1490; see also figs 320, 321 in Martens 1978); 30: holotype, Stalle Möschel (MSNB); 32: paratype, Bus di Tacoi (CJM 1496; see also fig. 322 in Martens 1978); 33–38: Ischyropsalis dentipalpis; 33: Italy, Torino, Ceres (CJM 5930); 34: Switzerland, Ticino, Frasco (CJM 1480; see also fig. 383 in Martens 1978); 35: neotype, Italy, Aosta Valley (CJM 5918); 36: Switzerland, Sonogno (CJM 1481; see also fig. 384 in Martens 1978); 37: holotype of I. helvetica, Switzerland, Ticino (SMF RI / 1282; see also fig. 385 in Martens 1978); 38: Switzerland, Rätikon, Sulzfluh (MHNG; see also fig. 386 in Martens 1978). All lateral view, scale bar (for all) 1 mm. Arrows indicate diagnostic characters mentioned in the text. Description: Measurements: ɗ (n= 9), Ψ (in parentheses, n= 8). Body length: 4.08–5.52 (5.68–7.28); leg II: 25.3–32.8 (25.6–33.5), femur 5.60–7.44 (5.68–7.28), patella 1.35–1.68 (1.44–1.68), tibia 4.24–5.60 (4.56– 5.52), metatarsus 6.80–9.20 (7.04–9.52), tarsus 5.44–8.96 (6.80–8.24); basal article of chelicera 4.08–4.64 (3.84–4.64). Penis morphology (Figs 15–21): Truncus penis slightly belly-like and widened dorsally, from about midsection to glans parallel-sided, truncus close to glans, not bulged dorsally (lateral view, Figs 15, 18) but rather a straight prolongation of the remainder of the truncus (Figs 17, 20– 21). Glans variable in length, gradually narrowing into stylus (Figs 15 –16, 18– 19), sclerite of glans narrow, ending in two broad and short lobes basally (Figs 16, 19), median keel missing, bristle cover dense, the two bristle areas diverging towards distal part of glans (Figs 16, 19), stylus remarkably long. Chelicerae (Figs 11, 13, 29–32): ɗ basal article with irregular dorsal row of 6–8 spines of different size, in most specimens the distal one being much smaller than the largest dorsal spines, ventro-medially with 6–7, ventro-laterally with 9–11 spines; basal article dorso-distally with large bulging apophysis ending at article border, thereby not protruding over article border and not markedly pronounced, less regularly rounded than in I. dentipalpis; area of bristles and secretory glands large, marked by lighter reddish colour, in dorsal view reaching dorsal side of apophysis, in lateral view covering most of dorso-distal part of apophyis (Figs 11, 13); Ψ like in ɗ but without apophysis and bristle area. Pedipalps (Figs 12, 14): ɗ with small, wedge-shaped ventral apophysis at distal end of patella, pointed distally, thereby fitting on the tibia; apophysis missing in Ψ. Legs: Robust, of medium length, dark brown, metatarsus and tarsus of lighter colour, base of femora whitish to yellowish. Prosoma: Cephalothorax flat, moderately ascending from thoracic tergite II; with few fine granules, matt; thoracic tergite II with 9–13 spines of different sizes, medial ones being the largest, plump conical in shape; ocularium weakly developed, eyes widely separated, with small lenses. Opistosoma: Scutal area finely spotted, with transversal rows of small tubercles carrying slender bristles of medium length; ɗ usually with scutum parvum, rarely with scutum intermedium (area 5 isolated, area partly separated, Figs 3–4), Ψ with scutum laminatum (Fig. 2). Variability: There seems to be no extraordinary variation despite the general differences in Ischyropsalis species, e. g. spination is more developed in larger specimens, (see Martens 1969 a: 160–165). The glans penis may be quite variable, stout or more slender (Figs 15 –16, 18– 19). This is also obvious in I. dentipalpis (Figs 22 –23, 25– 26). Distribution (Fig. 39): Endemic to montane and alpine areas of the central Alps of the Bergamo area (Prov. Bergamo). The distribution area known so far is a narrow belt of only 60 km length and 15 km maximum width. The westernmost record is close to Lecco (Sant’Omobono) and the easternmost at the border to Val Camonica (Schilpario). Localities are concentrated in the area of Monte Arera (Roncobello, Oltre il Colle) and Monte Presolana (Oltressenda Alta, Vilminore) but this is probably only due to intense collecting activity in this area. Ecology: While Martens (1978, sub I. dentipalpis) stated that I. lithoclasica sp. n. is a troglobiont, the many specimens in pitfall traps at the type locality, as well as finds in small rock cavities in coniferous forest (Fig. 1) and under stones in alpine meadows at even higher altitudes contradict his interpretation. It is a troglophilous species favouring cave habitats for their cool and moist microclimate, as does I. dentipalpis. The type locality meets these requirements quite nicely, being an interstitial habitat where cold air emanates from thick layers of clastic gravel. There I. lithoclasica sp. n. can be found in quite large numbers close to the surface. With increasing altitude (from about 1600 m upwards) the species is probably less bound to underground habitats and there are more epigeic records. The known vertical distribution spans from 670 m (cave Nala di Cà Maquela) to 2200 m (Valle Scura) but is likely to extend further up. One of us (AS) found at 1200 m adults resting during the day on vertical rock faces in deep cavities and once, at night, specimens wandering on rock faces in close vicinity to these cavities (Fig. 1, Stalle del Möschel). Conservation: Although I. lithoclasica sp. n. appears frequently in suitable habitats, which are numerous throughout its area, it is nevertheless a narrowly endemic species and therefore it requires particular attention. Considering the presence of many other endemic Opiliones taxa in the Alps of the Bergamo area, e.g. Holoscotolemon franzinii Tedeschi & Sciaky, 1994, Mitostoma orobicum (Caporiacco, 1949), Mitostoma anophthalmum (Fage, 1946) and Siro valleorum Chemini, 1990, narrow endemism seems to be a common phenomenon in this region. This suggests a glacial “massifs de refuge” and outlines an area of unique biodiversity even within the small order Opiliones; hence the region deserves conservation priority.Published as part of Schönhofer, Axel L. & Martens, Jochen, 2010, On the identity of Ischyropsalis dentipalpis Canestrini, 1872 and description of Ischyropsalis lithoclasica sp. n. (Opiliones: Ischyropsalididae), pp. 1-14 in Zootaxa 2613 on pages 9-12, DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.19784

The <i>Leiobunum rupestre</i> species group: resolving the taxonomy of four widespread European taxa (Opiliones: Sclerosomatidae)

Within the central European opilionid fauna the widely used species names Leiobunum rupestre Herbst, 1799 and Leiobunum tisciae Avram, 1968 pose taxonomic and distributional problems. In addition, Nelima apenninica Martens, 1969 is close to L. tisciae in terms of external and genital morphology, but is specifically distinct. While coxal denticulation is largely lacking in N. apenninica, the validity of the genus Nelima Roewer, 1910 is questioned again. In addition, Leiobunum subalpinum Komposch, 1998, a recently described novelty from the eastern Alps, is closely related to L. rupestre. The four species are combined as the morphologically defined Leiobunum rupestre species group. Except for L. subalpinum, they were found to be allopatrically distributed from the Carpathians across central and Northwest Europe to the south-western Alps. The latter species is locally sympatric and partly elevationally parapatric to L. rupestre. Leiobunum tisciae is a recently introduced name and here recognized as a junior synonym of a number of taxa described much earlier, of which L. gracile Thorell, 1876 is re-introduced as oldest available name. Detailed morphological and distributional data for all taxa are presented.</p

Confirmation of Homalenotus quadridentatus (Opiliones: Sclerosomatidae) for the fauna of Germany

The sclerosomatid harvestman Homalenotus quadridentatus (Cuvier, 1795), long known close to the border of Germany, is hereby confirmed for the country. Several specimens were observed and collected in a small urban garden area in the town Aachen, suggesting a considerable population. The finding is briefly discussed, and general remarks on the distribution, ecology and conservation of the species are provided.Homalenotus quadridentatus (Cuvier, 1795), seit langem bekannt in der Nähe der Grenze zu Deutschland, wird für das Land bestätigt. Mehrere Exemplare wurden in einem kleinen städtischen Garten in der Stadt Aachen beobachtet und gesammelt, was auf eine erhebliche Bevölkerung schließen lässt. Die Erkenntnisse werden kurz diskutiert, und allgemeine Bemerkungen über die Verteilung, Ökologie und Erhaltung der Art zur Verfügung gestellt